Does Car Size Really Affect Transport Costs?

4–5 minutes read

Note: This is a general approach and each carrier and service company handle things differently. 

When planning to move your vehicle interstate, one of the most common questions we hear is: does car size really affect transport costs? The short answer is yes and for good reason. From the amount of space a car occupies on a carrier to how it’s loaded and transported, vehicle dimensions directly impact pricing, logistics, and carrier availability. In this guide, we’ll unpack how vehicle size factors into transport costs and how you can make informed decisions when booking interstate car transport in Australia.

Why Size Matters in Car Transport

Vehicle carriers have a fixed amount of space available. Larger cars like SUVs, 4WDs, and vans take up more room than compact sedans or hatchbacks, meaning fewer vehicles can be loaded onto the same truck. This leads to fewer bookings per load and higher transport costs per vehicle for the carrier.

If your vehicle is oversized, modified, or unusually shaped (like a lifted 4WD or extended wheelbase van), the carrier may also need to make adjustments to loading procedures or equipment. These special handling requirements often come with additional fees.

Weight and Height Considerations

It’s not just length and width that affect transport fees, weight and height are also critical. Heavier vehicles may require reinforced trailers or be subject to road transport weight regulations, especially on interstate routes. Similarly, if your vehicle exceeds standard height restrictions, it may need to be transported on an open carrier with higher clearance or in a special enclosed truck, both of which cost more.

Looking to move a trailer, SUV, or ute? Our team can help with interstate car transport for larger vehicles.

Types of Vehicles That Typically Cost More to Transport

While every quote is tailored to the specific transport job, here’s a quick rundown of vehicles that usually incur higher transport costs:

• SUVs and 4WDs
• Dual-cab utes
• Vans and minibuses
• Classic or modified cars (due to special handling)
• Non-drivable or damaged vehicles (additional loading equipment required)

Need help moving a non-running or damaged car? Check out our detailed FAQ on how to move a non-running vehicle.

How to Get an Accurate Quote

To ensure you get an accurate and fair quote, be upfront about your vehicle’s dimensions, modifications, and condition. Accurate details allow our transport partners to allocate the right carrier, avoid loading issues, and prevent last-minute re-quotes or delays.

For example, when you request a quote with National Car Movers, we ask for your vehicle’s make, model, and condition to match you with the right transporter and provide the best available pricing,  with no hidden costs.

Tips to Save on Larger Vehicle Transport

If you’re moving a larger vehicle and want to keep costs down, here are a few suggestions:

• Opt for depot-to-depot service instead of door-to-door; it’s often cheaper and suitable for flexible schedules.
  
• Book early, especially during peak seasons like the Christmas holidays.
  
• Remove roof racks or external fittings if possible, to reduce vehicle height.
  
• Ensure your vehicle is drivable, if possible, non-operational cars cost more due to loading complexity.

Want to understand other cost factors beyond car size? Check out our article on key factors that affect trailer transport costs.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, car size directly affects transport costs especially for larger vehicles like SUVs, utes, and vans.
• More size = more space = more cost due to carrier limitations and higher fuel usage.
• Providing accurate vehicle dimensions ensures a realistic quote and avoids costly surprises on pickup day.

Get a Quote Based on Your Vehicle Type

At National Car Movers, we handle everything from compact hatchbacks to lifted 4WDs, trailers, and more. With our network of fully insured Australian carriers, we’ll match you with the best transport option for your vehicle’s size and destination.

Get a fast quote today or call 1300 396 099 to speak to our local support team.